4 Priceless Ways to Make Dad Proud While on the Road - A-MAX Auto Insurance - Seguros de Auto y Casa - 1-800-921-AMAX (2629)

Chances are, your dad usually knows a thing or two about cars and constantly reminds you to take caution while driving. Whether it’s checking the air pressure in your tires every month or becoming more aware of your surroundings, make your dad proud by practicing good habits on the road.

1. Drive responsibly

Once you get behind the wheel of a vehicle, you become liable to any accidents. Actively practice dad’s motto: “have fun, but safety first.” Practicing safe driving like using proper turn signals when necessary, conducting a seatbelt check and obeying all traffic signs will help reduce the chances of a catastrophic event. Make sure to give your undivided attention to the road and away from distractions (e.g., loud music, texting, social media, etc.). In doing so, it would reduce the chances of getting into an accident or acquiring tickets.

TIP: Put your phone on silent or “Do Not Disturb” mode to prevent distractions while driving. Phone usage while operating a vehicle increases your chances of a collision by nearly 400%.

2. Stay up to date with vehicle maintenance

Just like being active and eating healthy will help us in the span of life, so will keeping up with the scheduled maintenance for your vehicle. Avoid having your father constantly remind you of your checkups and know when it’s time for the next one. Familiarize yourself with components of your vehicle and maintain the necessary oil levels, coolant, and tire pressure before a drive. In checking your oil, knowing the difference between clean oil and muddy, murky oil will save you a ton on unnecessary changes and gives you a way to tell if something’s wrong with your engine. Some car models ask that you replace the coolant after the first 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles after that. Every model is different and will need to be looked at in the car manual. Your tires can easily be overlooked yet can be one of the easiest parts of your vehicle to manage. Make sure your tires have enough tread and look for wear indicators on your tire treads or anything that might look like you have a lower tire pressure than needed. Don’t avoid anything you may suspect to be leaking or broken, holding off on a much needed repair for too long can run the risk of long-term damages to the vehicle.

TIP: Not sure if it’s time for new tires? Do the penny test to determine whether or not it’s time for a replacement. Flip a penny so that Lincoln’s head is pointing downwards and stick it into your tire tread. If the tread covers up some of Lincoln’s head, you’re good to go. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s clear you’re running out of tread and it would be a safer bet to not drive your car!

3. Know how to properly change a flat tire

There are a few things you should always carry in your vehicle, some of which should be a jack, lug wrench and spare tire. It’s always nice to know the proper steps to take in changing your tire. Rather than having to call dad or roadside assistance, knowing what steps are needed to take is crucial when driving. It may not sound like it, but it’s always better to be expecting a flat tire rather than being unprepared.

TIP: If you are able to move your vehicle, find a safe location to make sure you are not in a hazardous area. When you realize you have a flat tire, do not abruptly stop but turn on your hazard lights and slowly make your way to the right side of the road.

4. Be courteous to other drivers

Every parent wants their child to grow up to be a Good Samaritan. Be courteous, especially when you are behind the wheel, this includes but is not limited to: respecting the pace of other drivers, driving in the lane appropriate to your speed, letting other drivers into your lane, etc.The last thing anyone wants is to be stuck on the side of the road when your engine or battery gives out on you. Put yourself in other people’s shoes whenever you are driving down the road and if family or friends are in need of help, stop and see if you are capable of lending a hand.

TIP: Keep a safe distance and leave a three second gap space between you and the vehicle in front of you to avoid tailgating. This will also help in avoiding an auto collision.

Lastly, give dad some peace of mind this Father’s Day and have an insurance provider that you can trust while you’re on the road. Get a quote with A-MAX Auto Insurance and ensure a safer drive.